2008 Woodie Awards
Memorial honors heroes
Kristina McCollor
Issue date: 9/13/07 Section: News
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Kleis hosted a 9/11 commemorative event Tuesday, Sept. 11. Members and representatives from the St. Cloud Police and Fire Department and war veterans gathered at the Veterans Plaza in the Municipal Athletic Complex in front of Joe Faber Field.
Patty Yarbrough sang "The National Anthem" to open the ceremony and led the crowd in singing "God Bless America."
Kleis, Police Chief Dennis Ballantine, Fire Chief Bill Mund and Army National Guard Major Jeff Howe all made remarks on the events of 9/11.
"We're here today to thank the police and fire department for being on the streets every day protecting us," Ballantine said.
Flags at half mast, police and fire fighters in uniform, veterans standing in straight formation with rifles in hand: all while numerous people from different occupations and states were remembered.
They were remembered for their courage and dedication to helping the 9/11 victims and risking their own lives to save many others.
"Terrorists attacked on that day, but failed to shake our country because of all the men and women in the military, police and fire department that gave their hard work and dedication," Kleis said.
The World Trade Center towers are no longer standing, and six years after the terrorist attacks people still gather in honor of the flag, the country and those that died.
"September 11, 2001, has shown us how life can be unpredictable and uncertain. We fail to acknowledge the things that people do for us day to day, give smiles to others and thank people for their kind doings," Mund said.
2,966 people died in terrorist attacks. Some choosing their deaths and some not, Kleis stated. People are still fighting for our country and risking their lives every day while abroad.
"I have a new found appreciation of our country after being in Iraq. Us along with the people of Iraq did not choose where they were born. I took this into serious thought while interacting with the Iraqis. We can't take for granted the things we have. We're part of the greatest nation in the world and a lot is expected of us and our country," said Howe.
The event finished off with a wreath laying ceremony by the commanders and chiefs honoring all the previous and present wars. Ben Richason played the bagpipe, the fire department rang the bell, while the members of the American Legion gave a rifle salute.
"We rely on the citizens to provide the support needed to continue our services," said Mund.
Always remember "freedom is never really free," said Howe.